Criminology explains the criminal justice system and the complex challenges of how we respond to crime, and punish or rehabilitate criminals. We explore traditional and contemporary approaches to crime prevention, helping students to develop a nuanced understanding of the impact of social problems – like poverty, inequality and social exclusion on criminal behaviour and rehabilitation – and understand the roles of forensic psychology, gender-based violence and the rise of illicit drugs.

You will address some of the most pressing issues facing contemporary societies. Why do people commit particular crimes? What effects does crime have on individuals, communities and society? Can crime be reduced or prevented? If so, what role do the police, the criminal justice system and policy makers play in tackling crime and social harm? Can offenders be rehabilitated in society? If so, how? And how can society help or hinder the rehabilitation process?

Our Criminology degree brings together theories and methods used to understand crime, deviance and inequality and equips students to critically evaluate the role of policing, criminal justice and offender rehabilitation in addressing the impact of crime on society. Throughout the course you will explore issues of social justice and learn about the ways in which crime and criminal justice policy and practice can be used to support and protect, but also further marginalise, some of the most vulnerable groups in society.